Miyako Islands Bridge & Beach Self-Drive
Drive through the northern area, Shimoji/Irabu, Kurima, and the southeast to explore all of Miyako's spectacular bridges and beaches.
Public transport on the island is inconvenient, so rent a car for the entire trip. Stay in Hirara for the first two nights for easy dining, and move to the southeast coast on the third night to easily catch the morning view at Higashi-hennazaki. The itinerary focuses on sightseeing and snorkeling, making it perfect for couples and friends. A half-day boat trip to Yabiji is not included, but you can replace Day 3 with a boat trip if you wish to go.
Accommodation is tight in July and August, so book early. Pay attention to flight changes during the typhoon season from July to October.
Day by day
Day 1 · Northern Beaches & Ikema Bridge
Miyako Island（Sunayama Beach、Yukishio Museum、Cape Nishi-hennazaki、Ikema Bridge）
Pick up your car at the airport and head north. It takes about 20 minutes from Sunayama to Ikema Island, and 30 minutes back to Hirara.
Stay: Hirara Town Center
Day 2 · Irabu & Shimoji Island Loop
Miyako Island（Irabu Bridge、Makiyama Observatory、Sawada Beach、Tori-ike Ponds、17END (Shimojishima Airport)、Toguchi Beach）
Drive about 20 minutes from Hirara across the Irabu Bridge. Driving times between spots on the island are about 10 minutes. Return to Hirara in the evening.
17END is tide-dependent; the beach is most visible at low tide.
Stay: Hirara Town Center
Day 3 · Maebama, Kurima, & South Coast
Miyako Island（Yonaha Maehama Beach、Kurima Bridge & Ryugujo Observatory、Shigira Beach）
Drive south from Hirara to Maebama (about 20 minutes), cross the Kurima Bridge, and drive along the south coast to Shigira (about 20 minutes).
Stay: Shigira and Southeast Coast
Day 4 · Higashi-hennazaki & Snorkeling
Miyako Island（Cape Higashi-hennazaki、Yoshino Beach、Aragusuku Beach）
Drive about 20 minutes from Shigira to Higashi-hennazaki, and 30 minutes from Aragusuku Beach back to the airport. Driving distances are short today.
Avoid entering the water at Yoshino and Aragusuku beaches when waves are strong. Pay attention to local warning signs.